Wireless Microphones > Head Microphones > Compare Head Microphones
Comparison of Head Microphones
With so many different head microphones on the market, it can be very difficult to determine which one is best for you. Of course, quality is always an important issue, and size is usually another. There are other factors however which often narrow the choice to personal preference.
As usual, at Alectro Systems we are always testing and comparing current equipment. We also get feedback from our customers.
Here will present a comparison between several of the small, inconspicuous ones, and discuss some of their pros and cons.
AKG HC577L
AKG is certainly one of the leaders in professional microphone. They have set the standard many times. One of the best Head Microphones on the market in many respects is their HC577L
Although it is not the smallest head microphone on the market, it is still quite small and inconspicuous, comes in black and beige, and offers some very unique features:
HC577L Advantages:
1) It is the only head microphone which is completely waterproof. This makes it very reliable and immune to sweat.
2) It is probably the most sturdy and strong Head Microphone available.
3) Because it attaches over both ears, it is much more stable than most.
4) It has the lowest noise transfer from the wire and headband compared with all other microphones we know of.
5) It is one of the few Head Microphones with adjustable size. This way it fits all heads nicely.
6) It has a very large dynamic range, making it great for even the loudest voices.
7) It is probably the best sounding head microphone of all.
HC577L Disadvantages:
1) Although it is quite small and inconspicuous, it is a bit larger than most of the ones listed below.
2) Because it is so sturdy, it is not very flexible. Although this is usually a good thing, it can make it a bit more difficult to adjust quickly for different people.
Clock Audio CMH2000
The Clock Audio CMH2000 is similar to the AKG C477 in many ways, but it has some advantages and disadvantages when compared. It also comes in black and beige.
CMH2000 Advantages:
1) It too goes on both ears making it stable.
2) It is lighter weight and smaller than the HC577, making it less noticeable to the person wearing it as well as the audience.
3) The microphone boom is a thin gooseneck which makes it easy to adjust.
4) It too is very quiet - little noise transfer through the wire and headband.
CMH2000 Disadvantages:
1) It has a tiny windscreen on the end of the microphone which on rare occasions can come off.
2) It has a lower dynamic range which is fine for almost all voices. If the user is very loud however, it might distort the sound.
3) Because the headband is not very adjustable, it might be a bit tight on larger heads.
Alectro Systems HM-1
The Alectro Systems HM-1 is an excellent head microphone with a tiny microphone element and "no slip" comfortable ear piece assembly. Unique features include a removable cable and interchangeable connectors. We believe that the HM-1 is possibly the best single ear head microphone available in terms of sound quality, stability and reliability.
HM-1 Advantages:
1) It is a very small head microphone available in beige.
2) The ear piece assembly is comfortable, adjustable, and grips to provide good "no slip" stability.
3) The tiny boom arm is flexible to allow adjustment for different users.
4) Because it goes on one ear, it can be worn on the left or right, and will fit anyone.
5) It has a removable wire making it easier to repair.
6) The belt pack connector screws onto the end of the cable. Connectors are available for almost all makes and models of belt packs.
HM-1 Disadvantages:
1) Because it only goes on one ear it is slightly less stable and a bit more difficult to put on and adjust than the two ear microphones.
Countryman E6i
The Countryman E6i is quite a popular head microphone, primarily because it is the smallest one available. This one comes in three colours, black tan and beige.
E6i Advantages:
1) It is one of the smallest head microphones on the market.
2) It comes in three colours instead of just two.
3) It is available with different dynamic ranges to accommodate for soft and loud voices, but you need to order the right one.
4) The tiny boom arm is flexible to allow adjustment for different users.
5) Because it goes on one ear, it can be worn on the left or right, and will fit anyone.
6) It has a removable wire making it easier to repair.
E6i Disadvantages:
1) Because it only goes on one ear it